WHO Civil Society Working Group on Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) calls for all governments to take urgent action to protect billions of people affected by NCDs and mental health conditions

Urgent action is needed to address the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health conditions globally. Cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, among other chronic conditions, are the leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for over 74% of global mortality. Progress toward Sustainable Development Goal target 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by one-third and promote mental health and well-being by 2030, is off-track. 

In September 2025, Heads of States and Governments will gather at the Fourth High-level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly (HLM4) to adopt a new political declaration on NCDs and mental health, shaping a vision through 2050.

On 2 May 2025, in preparation for HLM4 the President of the UN General Assembly convened an interactive Multistakeholder Hearing in New York, that served as an inclusive platform for Member States, United Nations entities, civil society, the private sector, academia, young professionals, professional associations, people living with NCDs and mental health conditions,  and other stakeholder groups to share their perspectives, experiences, and best practices while identifying challenges and proposing actionable solutions.

At the Hearing, the WHO Civil Society Working Group (CSWG), dedicated to the prevention and control of NCDs and promotion of mental health, representing over 30 non-governmental organizations, delivered a strong message. The Group urged that the UN High-level Meeting’s political declaration prioritizes critical elements, including enhanced governance, strengthened integrated health systems based on primary healthcare and person-centered approaches, health-promoting environments, sustainable financing, and robust data and surveillance systems. 

Access the full CSWG Consensus Statement

Access the list of members of the 3rd Cycle of the CSWG